WAYPAN tasks new IGP Olatunji Disu on police reform, human rights protection

The West African Youth Protection and Advocacy Network (WAYPAN) has formally called on the newly appointed Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, to prioritize a comprehensive reform of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to align with global human rights standards.

In a statement signed by its Regional Coordinator, Rafiu Adeniran Lawal, the organization described the appointment of IGP Disu as a pivotal opportunity to overhaul the nation’s internal security architecture.

The group urged the new police leadership to move beyond rhetoric and institutionalize a culture of deep respect for human and civil rights within the force.

Central to WAYPAN’s demands is a thorough review of pending cases involving alleged rights violations against young Nigerians.

The advocacy group highlighted a disturbing trend of unlawful arrests, systemic harassment, wrongful profiling, and the prolonged detention of citizens without trial.

"The era of arbitrary policing must give way to accountability," the statement read. "We are calling for an immediate audit of cases where young Nigerians have been targeted by the very institution meant to protect them."

Furthermore, WAYPAN expressed grave concern over the increasing weaponization of Nigeria’s cybercrime laws.

The group alleged that the legislation is frequently being used to prosecute and intimidate young people at the behest of influential individuals, including politicians and the wealthy elite.

According to the network, this trend stifles free expression and unfairly criminalizes digital innovation and civic engagement.
To address these systemic issues, WAYPAN recommended a robust retraining programme for police officers.

The proposed training would focus on human rights standards and lawful engagement procedures, with a particular emphasis on managing public demonstrations and protests.

The group noted that the professional conduct of officers during civil unrest remains a critical benchmark for the success of any meaningful reform.

As IGP Olatunji Disu settles into his new role, the West African youth body emphasized that his legacy will be defined by his ability to restore public confidence in the police and ensure that the rights of every Nigerian, regardless of status, are upheld.